"The project focuses on agronomic problems restrict-
ing expanded food crop production in the semi-arid areas
of Kenya. Its specific objective is to develop, through
basic and applied research, an appropriate technological
package of agricultural recommendations for small holder
farmers in the semi-arid areas and assist in improving the
delivery system for implementing that technological package.
The package is to include recommended crop varieties and
cropping systems, optimal planting times and improved cul-
tural practices. When adopted, the package would increase
agricultural production and improve the well-being of the
areas' farmers."1/

This report is based on five days in Kenya -- an amount of time to see,

hear and absorb much but short enough so that it can create a false illusion

of understanding. Even though the time was programmed very efficiently, it

is not possible to grasp all that is required,to make a report of this nature

in so short a period. Hence, although some of the following is specific, it

should be received with a due amount of precaution. It is hoped that any

errors in fact or interpretation that do exist are not of sufficient magni-

tude to cause any major problems to the PASA team or any of the entities

with which it works or has contact.

Assessment of General Conditions (Problem Situation)

The marginal lands for which the team has responsibilities is character-

ized by a complex crop/livestock type of farming system. The livestock are

as important to the cropping system as the crops are to the livestock. Maize

is not considered only a grain crop but also as a source forage for the dry

season. For this reason, all maize planted is not necessarily viewed as the